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Highway News
Scotland Could Bring In Speed Awareness Courses
Drivers caught speeding in Scotland could soon get the same opportunities as those in the rest of the UK and take a speed awareness course instead of getting points on their licences, in a radical shake-up of road policing. Motorists in England, Wales and Northern Ireland who are caught just above the limit are able to avoid fines and points on their licence if they pay for an education course. Now The Sunday Post reportsPolice Scotland and the Scottish Government are planning ways the system could be introduced north of the border. The report says police have now confirmed that Scotland could be brought into line with the rest of Britain with the introduction of diversionary courses as an alternative to prosecution for various road traffic offences. (Picture – Jenoptik)
road-bridge
Feb 17, 2025
Highway News
Mp Calls For Loud Music Rule For Pedicabs
An MP is calling for Transport for London to ban pedicabs from playing loud music. London’s Standard newspaper reports Cities of London and Westminster MP Rachel Blake has urged a ban on “amplified sound” as part of a set of regulations being introduced for the bikes. Pedicabs are currently the only form of unregulated public transport in the capital, and this has led to inconsistencies in the way services operate, with some customers being charged what TfL calls “well-documented rip-off fares”. To support the pedicab industry to offer a safe, professional and reliable service, TfL is seeking views on several proposals, including that: However Ms Blake says music is an important factor too. “From the West End to Westminster, these vehicles have created nuisance for communities who are seeking peace and quiet in their neighbourhoods,” he told the Standard. “ “The impact on local residents, families, and businesses is undeniable – especially in the evenings and late at night. The noise disrupts daily life, impedes sleep and rest, and creates an atmosphere that undermines our quality of life.” (Picture – TfL)
road-bridge
Feb 17, 2025
Highway News
Uae Charts A Skybound Future With Air Corridors For Air Taxis And Cargo Drones
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is charting a bold course into the future of urban transportation. In a ground-breaking move, the nation has embarked on mapping air corridors and crafting regulatory frameworks for piloted and autonomous air taxis and cargo drones. This ambitious initiative, a collaboration between the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) entities, Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and ASPIRE—aims to revolutionize the movement of people and goods across urban landscapes. Pioneering Advanced Air Mobility Within the next 20 months, the UAE plans to delineate aerial corridors and establish comprehensive regulations, underscoring its commitment to deploying safe, advanced, and sustainable transportation solutions. These routes will seamlessly connect key international airports with iconic landmarks, integrating both piloted and autonomous air taxis and cargo drones into the nation’s urban fabric. His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, emphasized the significance of this development: “Air corridor mapping for piloted and autonomous air taxis and drones is a crucial milestone that will enable the seamless implementation of advanced air mobility into the UAE’s infrastructure.” This initiative not only aims to alleviate urban congestion but also aspires to set a global benchmark for future urban mobility systems. Strategic Collaborations and Technological Expertise The UAE’s forward-thinking approach is bolstered by TII’s proficiency in airspace management, ensuring the safe integration of these innovative aerial vehicles into bustling urban environments. Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, highlighted the transformative potential of this collaboration: “By advancing airspace management and integrating piloted and autonomous air taxis and cargo drones, we are enhancing urban connectivity and driving sustainable and accessible mobility solutions that will benefit future generations.” ASPIRE’s involvement further enriches the initiative by fostering a network of stakeholders, including regulators, industry leaders, and researchers. Stephane Timpano from ASPIRE noted: “Addressing real-time urban mobility challenges through innovative solutions like air taxis and drones is a major step forward.” This concerted effort aims to create a flexible and diverse transport system, easing pressure on traditional infrastructure and promoting smarter, more resilient cities. Global Implications and Future Prospects The UAE’s venture into advanced air mobility (AAM) is poised to position the nation as a global leader in next-generation transportation. The collaboration between GCAA, TII, and ASPIRE seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework, ensuring both safety and operational efficiency. Professor Enrico Natalizio, Chief Researcher of the Autonomous Robotics Research Center at TII, elaborated: “At TII, we’re developing advanced AI-powered control, vision, and communication algorithms for autonomous systems that enable real-time decision-making for air taxis and drones.” These technological advancements are crucial for optimizing routes, ensuring collision avoidance, and seamlessly integrating with urban airspace. The announcement of this initiative during the World Government Summit 2025 underscores the UAE’s dedication to pioneering sustainable and efficient urban transportation solutions. As the nation progresses with air corridor mapping and regulatory development, it sets a precedent for other countries to follow, heralding a new era of urban mobility. A Vision for Smarter Cities The UAE’s proactive stance on integrating air taxis and cargo drones reflects a broader vision of smarter, interconnected urban centres. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and fostering strategic partnerships, the nation is not only addressing current transportation challenges but also anticipating future needs. This initiative exemplifies how innovative thinking and collaboration can lead to transformative solutions, paving the way for cities worldwide to reimagine their transportation infrastructures.
road-bridge
Feb 15, 2025
Highway News
Asphalt Group Completes Journey To Meet Environmental Standard
Asphalt Group have achieved PAS 2080 verification, becoming one of the first companies in the highways sector to meet the environmental standard, covering all four businesses in the group, namely Reinforcement; Preservations; Surface Dressing and Surfacing.PYE-Management Ltd has worked with Asphalt Group to help them obtain verification to PAS 2080: 2023 Carbon Management in Buildings and Infrastructure.PAS 2080 is starting to be rolled out within the highways sector in the UK and is referenced in the UK government’s Construction Playbook as a key specification for carbon management in the built environment. Asphalt Group Managing Director Stephen Cooke said:“The highways sector is under increasing pressure to adapt to improving environmental standards and expectations of government and society; including bringing all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.PAS 2080 is not just about reducing carbon; it’s about transforming the way we design, build, and manage infrastructure to ensure the asset lasts longer.” It provides a framework for managing whole-life carbon in infrastructure projects, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and costs through intelligent design, construction, and use.As a business Asphalt Group are keen to ensure that their impacts on the environment are minimised and recognise that it is vital to be able to show, through obtaining PAS 2080, the good work being done by the company to protect the environment in which they work. Cooke added:“It is important that we take steps as a company to decarbonise our own operations and in turn help others to do so. As a leading road repair specialist, we will continue to help the industry deliver carbon and cost savings, by providing long lasting solutions that are designed to make roads last longer.” Pic: Asphalt Group
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Wj Group Receives Official Science Based Target’S Initiative (Sbti) Validation Of Net Zero Targets
WJ Group, has had its net zero targets validated by the Science Based Target’s Initiative (SBTi). The SBTi exists to help businesses create clearly defined carbon reduction objectives and strategies in line with the Paris Agreement to limit global warming by 1.5°C, while using the latest guidance provided by climate scientists to reduce carbon emissions. Alongside its overall target of reaching net zero by 2042, WJ Group has pledged to achieve a variety of long- and short-term goals to reduce its Scope 1/2/3 emissions in line with the SBTi’s standards. This includes reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by a minimum of 90% by 2032. Within the same timeframe, WJ Group will also reduce the amount of carbon emitted within its supply chain (Scope 3) by 32.4%. The road marking specialist has committed to maintaining this 90% reduction of Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from 2032 through to 2042. During this 10-year period, it will also aim to further cut the carbon outputs of its supply chain by 90% against its 2022 baseline. Although these targets have only recently been validated, WJ Group has already made multiple changes to reduce its carbon emissions. To help lower the greenhouse gases emitted within its supply chain, the business reformulated its own road marking products using a biogenic binder which in turn has saved an average of more than 80% across the range, equalling over 20,000tCO2e per year. Alongside this, it launched a Driver Behaviour Scheme targeted at improving safety and sustainability that in the first year saw a 40% reduction in road incidents as well as a 7.75% decrease in emissions. This endeavour was recognised for its potential with it receiving a Green World Award. Furthermore, to improve operational efficiency and lower emission, many of WJ’s vehicles have been redesigned to serve multiple functions requiring only 1 vehicle rather than 2 to carry out different road maintenance schemes. Additionally, the business uses solar powered generators to power its CCTV cameras on highway maintenance projects. Mai Vasudevan, Group Sustainability Advisor at WJ Group said: “Reducing our carbon footprint has been a significant goal for WJ Group for many years, so having this external validation showcases the strength of our targets and plans.”
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Shaping The Future Of Safety At The Rsma Annual Conference & Dinner 2025
Collaboration, decarbonisation, inclusivity, asset management, and digital transformation were all on the agenda at the recent Road Safety Markings Association Conference & Dinner. This event offered the perfect opportunity to meet with major stakeholders, safety practitioners, asset managers and contractors to help ‘shape the future’ of the UK road marking industry. The day started with a state of the nation message from Jo White, research, development & innovation director at National Highways who looked to the year ahead and touched on new policies and the work being carried out by her research team. Other notable talks included Emily See, highways market director at Amey Consulting, who spoke about local authorities’ approach to asset management. The talk explored how highways inspections didn’t include road markings and usually focused on carriageways, neglecting them as an important safety feature. Emily encouraged us to consider all assets when inspecting roads and how maintaining them would lead to better road conditions. As a use case Dorset County Council explained how they used technology to better understand road marking conditions based on need and potential risk. Using data from a retro-reflectivitysurvey, line marking visibility data gathered using an AI-aided system and STATS19 collision data they could analyse each road and see where there was a high risk to safety.Through this technology they identified £400k of road marking improvements and used the case study to secure the additional £200k needed to complete the necessary work.Jon Munslow, local authority consultant gave a talk on Strategic View on Road Marking Resilience exploring how we meet net zero targets through low carbon solutions including:• Plant based resins• Recycled plastics• Industrial by products• Geo polymers• Solar powerThermochromic• Carbon capturingGreg Clark, managing director of QMS, delivered a thought-provoking talk titled, ‘Temporary traffic management guidance: embracing change’. He presented guidance, in partnership with the RSMA, on implementing effective temporary trafficmanagement measures in road marking to protect the safety of the public and the workforce. Greg shared QMS as a case study where they been training their operatives on temporary traffic management measures on rural Devon roads. He encouraged embracing change and improving worksite safety for the road marking sector. Rob Shearing, chief executive of the RSMA, promoted this year’s show as an opportunity to demystify digitisation – to provide clarity about the process of adopting software solutions like field management for companies who haven’t yet taken the leap.Continuing on the theme of safety Ashley Wing, Re-flow CMO, and Julie Davidson, head of QSHE at Jointline, collaborated with the talk, ‘Navigating the road ahead:driving change in field operations’. The presentation offered important insights on the benefits of field management software including:• Software adding a layer of safety protectionJulie explained the ‘Swiss Cheese’ theory of accident causation, which illustrates how safety prevention works in layers. Each layer of protection – training, PPE, equipment checks – contributes to a solid safety system, but each also has its own ‘holes’, or areas of risk. Accidents occur when these holes align, creating a chain of failures. Implementing digital field management adds multiple extra layers of protection and ‘narrows’ theseholes, vastly reducing the chances of those failures lining up.• Digital systems enhancing complianceImplementing digital field management systems enables businesses to capture real-time data, facilitating robust analysis. It makes it easier for QC teams and other managers to quickly identify those patterns that might signalearly compliance issues before they escalate.• Fatigue tracking providing proactive safety managementDigital systems can automatically flag and halt potential safety concerns, such as employees exceeding Working Time Directive hours. The software automatically stops these operatives from being scheduled, or alerts theperson in charge of scheduling, enabling timely interventions to prevent fatigue-related incidents.• Reduction of human errorDigital systems reduce human error by providing other safeguards like qualification checks, thereby strengthening compliance and decreasing the chances of system failures leading to accidents.
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Cubic Transportation Systems Announces Uk Innovation Centre
Cubic Transportation Systems has announced the launch of an innovation centre with the mission of determining how emerging technologies can solve challenges in public transport. The centre will initially conduct research on improving transit agencies’ financial sustainability through the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), in a joint effort with academic experts from Imperial College London through Imperial Consultants. While the collaboration and research begin immediately, the immersive centre will open in September 2025. The centre will build upon Cubic’s legacy of innovation and technical excellence in transport. It will provide public and private sector thought leaders with a seminar space to present the latest research, demonstrate new technology and discuss emerging strategies for addressing transportation’s most critical challenges, including fare evasion, meeting net zero commitments and accessibility. It will also feature a customer experience area with a “tube station of the future” – including customizable devices and digital walls for immersive demonstrations. The centre will be located within Cubic Transportation Systems’ headquarters in Redhill, Surrey. Cubic, along with independent experts from Imperial’s Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics (AIDA) Lab, form a world-class think tank to tackle the issue of revenue protection. The team at Imperial, headed by Professor Danilo Mandic, Director of the AIDA Lab and Professor of Machine Intelligence, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Imperial, brings experience as one of the world’s leaders in applications of AI to solve real-world problems. Together, Cubic and the team from Imperial will investigate how these proven approaches can be applied to transit. The centre will tackle the topic of fare evasion, which is a highly complex and expensive issue faced by public transport companies across the globe. TfL’s most recent annual estimate of fare evasion (2022-23) equates this to around £130m-£150m in unpaid journeys. The Imperial team will investigate rider behavioural patterns related to fare evasion and how to incentivise payment for using public transport. Cubic will also launch an internship program for students at Imperial to help foster future talent in the industry and drive innovation. Over the coming months, Cubic will announce additional academic, nonprofit and industry partners for the centre. “This collaboration is an opportunity for us to develop the transportation experts of the future,” said Professor Mandic. “Our students and researchers will be working closely with Cubic to harness the latest innovations in technology to solve transportation’s most significant challenges. We look forward to working together to develop new ideas, technologies and industry leaders.” “By developing a centre that bridges industries, academic partners and government agencies, our aim is to discover better solutions for our customers and the wider public transit ecosystem, which will contribute to increased ridership and job opportunities,” said Peter Montgomery-Torrellas, senior vice president and president of Cubic Transportation Systems. “Our long-term vision is to replicate this model in key markets around the world, expanding our industry-leading partnerships and ensuring innovation is at the core of everything we do.” Pic: Yay Images
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Lcrig Announces First Members Of Apprenticeship Task Group
LCRIG have welcomed the first three members of its newly formed Apprentice Task Group: Benjamin Crossley, Josh Sutcliffe and Macy Richards. The dynamic team is dedicated to supporting and championing apprentices in the highways and transport technology sector. As the industry continues to face a growing skills gap, the Apprentice Task Group will play a key role in shaping opportunities for apprentices. Working alongside Keely Metcalfe, who chairs the group, they will develop CPD sessions, live demonstrations, and workshops at the LCRIG Innovation & Learning Festival 2025. Benjamin Crossley, Engineer, Development Management at Essex Highways Benjamin began his apprenticeship journey almost seven years ago with Ringway Jacobs. He has since progressed to a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering and is on track to graduate this summer, achieving Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Recently, Benjamin has worked with colleagues and the HR team to redevelop the company’s apprenticeship programme. “Our goal is to enhance the apprentice experience by providing them with more exposure and experience, helping them become well-rounded engineers. We launched our new apprenticeship programme in September 2024 and are now recruiting for the 2025 intake.” Benjamin was first introduced to LCRIG when he was invited to speak at the Strictly Highways 2024 conference. “This experience significantly boosted my public speaking skills. Presenting in front of industry professionals not only increased my confidence but also taught me the importance of adaptability and audience engagement.” As a member of the Apprentice Task Group, he hopes to support apprentices through their journey. “I am really excited to be part of the Apprentice Task Group and have the chance to make positive changes that will help apprentices progress in their current training agreements. Through my own journey, I have faced challenges balancing full-time work, studying, and maintaining a social life. I hope to use my experiences to support others who might be dealing with similar struggles.” Josh Sutcliffe, Case Officer at LADC Josh is currently working towards a Chartered Management qualification and a degree in Business Management while building LADC’s relationship with LCRIG as a Corporate Member. “Since starting my apprenticeship, part of my role at LADC has been to build the relationship with LCRIG and as a Corporate Member, explore how our services can assist LCRIG Council Members to address the prevalent and pressing issue regarding unadopted roads.” Josh first attended Strictly Highways in 2024, where he had the opportunity to network with Corporate and Council Members. “Strictly Highways gave me, as an apprentice, an opportunity to speak and network with other Corporate Members and Council Members. I will also be attending the next Innovation and Learning Festival and Strictly Highways in 2025!” Motivated by the sector’s growing skills shortage, Josh joined the Apprentice Task Group to help raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities. “One of the main reasons I was inspired to join the Apprenticeship Task Group is because of the current shortage of skills in the sector; I hope to contribute and help spread the awareness of the opportunities apprenticeships can provide and the invaluable skills they can bring. Macy Richards, Assistant Engineer at Milestone Infrastructure Macy is currently in her fifth year of a degree apprenticeship in Civil Engineering and has experienced first-hand the benefits of apprenticeships. “I was first introduced to LCRIG in 2023 when I was invited to attend Strictly Highways. I loved seeing the array of work within the highways industry and the incredible initiatives everyone was working on. I was also lucky enough to win Apprentice of the Year at the DfT Special Recognition awards, something I am very proud of.” Macy is passionate about promoting apprenticeships and supporting those navigating their own journeys. “Apprenticeships are something I have always been keen to promote, as I have been fortunate to have such a great experience with mine. I have always worked to support current apprentices as it can often be an overwhelming thing to take on.” At her workplace, she chaired a Graduate and Apprentice Support Group, focusing on both technical and personal development. She has also worked on STEM and school initiatives to challenge misconceptions about apprenticeships. “I have continually worked on STEM and school initiatives throughout my apprenticeship to try and change some of the negative narratives around apprenticeships, which simply aren’t true.”
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Celebrating Excellence: Its Australia Announces 2025 Award Winners
Australia’s Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) industry gathered in Perth last night to celebrate the winners of the 15th Annual ITS Australia Awards. The ITS Australia Awards acknowledge outstanding achievements in advanced transport technology, recognising organisations that leverage new and emerging technologies to enhance the intelligence, safety and efficiency of Australia’s transport networks. “We are thrilled to celebrate this year’s ITS Australia Award winners, whose outstanding talent and innovative contributions continue to drive excellence within Australia’s intelligent transport systems industry,” said Silje Troseth, President of ITS Australia. “The diverse range of winners highlights the impressive efforts of industry leaders, government agencies, and researchers working together to create a safer, more sustainable, and accessible transport network that benefits all Australians.” This year’s Connected & Automated Vehicle Award was won by Lexus Australia for Safer Urban Mobility for Vulnerable Road Users Through Cooperative Awareness and SharedPerception. This Lexus Australia project, which took place in the heart of Sydney’s Darling Harbour, integrated Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) to create a safer urban environment, focusing on Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) safety. “Lexus is a leader in automotive active safety technology and is globally committed to working towards zero road trauma. Cooperative intelligent transport systems have a significant role to play in striving towards this target,” said Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas. “Our research and development fleet of Lexus vehicles using C-ITS to exchange messages with other vehicles, road users and infrastructure allows us to apply real-world learnings into current and future active safety technology.” The Smart Transport Infrastructure Award was presented to Transport for NSW for Australian-First Tech Gives Over Height Trucks a Real-Time Reality Check. In an Australian first, Transport for NSW has combined the Light Detection and Ranging scanning technology with Automatic Number Plate Recognition software to deliver instantaneous warnings to truck drivers on the overhead Variable Message Sign. “The NSW Government remains resolute in its commitment to stopping overheight trucks from shutting down our city and inconveniencing motorists,” said Raj Roychoudhry, Operational Technology, Coordinator General at Transport for NSW. “This new technology on trial will help us strengthen the approach even further and this trial came out of the work of the Overheight Truck Taskforce that brought together the trucking industry, Transport for NSW, the NSW Police and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator.” “This system not only enhances road safety but also underpins our commitment to fostering innovation within the heavy vehicle industry.” The Intelligent Mobility Award went to SAGE Automation for the See Me: Bus Signalling App. See Me is a ground-breaking app that makes public transport accessible for everyone. The app allows users to hail a bus remotely and notify them when the bus is approaching and when it is about to reach the end destination. “I’m delighted that See Me was announced as the winner of the Intelligent Mobility Award, it’s fantastic recognition from the industry, particularly in a very strong category,” said Cassie Hames, from SAGE Group, who pioneered the App. “See Me was created on the principles of inclusion and making public transport accessible for everyone. The idea for See Me came from my own experience of using public transport, and the input of many people who rely on public transport but find it challenging.” “My hope is that See Me has demonstrated how considering and including other perspectives can enrich our community and drive innovation in our industry.” The Excellence in Research & Development Award sponsored by iMOVE Australia was won by Main Roads Western Australia for its Smart Freeway Live Decision Support Tool. “Our latest Smart Freeway Mitchell Southbound went live in December 2024 and is already delivering significant benefits to Western Australians through improvements to safety, reliability, sustainability, and travel time savings,” said Mehdi Langroudi, Executive Director of Network Operations. “Working closely with our industry partners iMove and Aimsun, the live decision support tool will provide our state-of-the-art Main Roads Road Network Operation Centre further means to better optimise infrastructure assets through use of technology.” “I’d like to thank ITS Australia for this award which recognises our contributions to the industry, collaboration with our industry partners and encourages our efforts in the research and development space.” The Excellence in Transport Data Award went to Transport for NSW for Optimised Replacement Bus Services During Network Disruptions – A Data Driven Approach. Transport for NSW collaborated with the University of Technology Sydney to develop a data-driven solution leveraging data, AI, and optimisation techniques to estimate emergency bus service demand and optimising bus routes and deployment during network disruptions. “Data only has value when it reaches the hands of those who make decisions. By working with business to develop tools for our frontline staff, we turn insights into real impacts,’ said Ruimin Li, Director Intelligence & Enablement, Coordinator General, Transport for NSW. This award honours the power of engaging end users in unlocking the true potential of transport data.” The Young Professional Award sponsored by Transurban resulted in a tie between Gloria Tan from Service Stream and Timothy Hudson from Transurban. The Max Lay Lifetime Achievement Award winner John Venables received his award, which was announced in late 2024. The inaugural winner of the Woman of the Year Award, Dr Miranda Blogg, also announced in late 2024, was also honoured at the Awards ceremony. ITS Australia CEO Susan Harris commended this year’s winners. “This year’s winning projects truly highlight the collaborative spirit that drives Australia’s intelligent transport systems sector, particularly the strong partnerships being forged with leading universities to deliver evidence-based solutions to some the nation’s biggest transport challenges,” said Susan Harris, CEO of ITS Australia. “As the peak industry body, ITS Australia is dedicated to nurturing these transformative collaborations, which are paving the way for technology-driven solutions that are enhancing all modes of transport and improving the travel experience for Australians.”
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Norfolk: Campaigners Criticise Road Scheme Tree Felling
Campaigners in Norfolk have criticised the felling of trees as part of a scheme to dual a major road. David Hook, of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), said: “If you are completely altering a landscape, there is no way that can be described as sensitive.” National Highways said 2,500 trees had been felled to create two additional lanes and two new junctions on a 5.5-mile (9km) stretch of the A47 between North Tuddenham and Easton. The BBC reported that National Highways said it was taking measures to protect the environment, including planting 7,000 new trees. The scheme, costing up to £300m, was delayed by 20 months by legal challenges from environmental campaigners. National Highways expects work to be completed in 2027. Mr Hook, trustee of the Norfolk branch of the CPRE, said he could not understand how creating a dual carriageway could cause “that much destruction of trees” but that economic growth had “always been the enemy of green environmental causes”. He said: “We need infrastructure of the right type in the right places, and that does not necessarily include dualling a short stretch of road between Easton and the current dual carriageway. “At the moment, certain species of animals get special consideration… how long those protections will remain in place, we’ll see.” Chris Griffin, National Highways programme leader, said locally sourced trees were being planted as replacements for those felled. Environmental work had also been carried out around the River Tud, he said. “As part of the scheme, we have already created a brand new badger sett which has allowed us to move some badgers,” said Mr Griffin. “The actual River Tud bridge is going to be expanded, which will allow for greater flood protection,” he added. Pic: Mapillary
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Speed Camera Demand For Leicestershire Bypass
Calls have been made for speed cameras to be put in place to deter car cruisers using a Leicestershire village bypass. Dangerous driving and anti-social behaviour along the A426 at Blaby is a long-standing issue, with police currently carrying out “targeted operations” to tackle a rise in illegal street racing. But despite successes – including a 500-car meet planned for Saturday being cancelled – residents said problems are continuing, says the BBC. Blaby district councillor Paul Hartshorn said he would like average speed cameras to be installed to stop the problem – but Leicestershire County Council said there was not enough of a track record of speeding or accidents to allow cameras there. At the start of February, Leicestershire Police’s Hinckley and Blaby commander Insp Mat Allingham said the force was tackling “extremely dangerous” drivers after “a number of large, organised meets”. He warned cars would be seized and warnings sent to owners of vehicles involved. However, the use of a Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO) to hand extra powers to officers, as is the case in Castle Donington and Kegworth, has been ruled out for now. Les Phillimore, joint chair of the Blaby and Hinckley Community Safety Partnership, said: “There is no excuse for using the roads as race tracks. “We’re committed to doing all that we can to reduce incidents.” Hartshorn said recent police operations were welcome but “don’t stop” the meets. He would like the highways authority Leicestershire County Council to install average speed cameras along the stretch as a deterrent and to catch speeding drivers should they turn up in the area. “We need to stop it happening in the first place. These car races are a danger and a risk to the other road users. There needs to be a permanent solution. And it needs to be done now before somebody’s killed.”
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025
Highway News
Easypark Group Acquires Parkopedia
EasyPark Group has completed its strategic acquisition of Parkopedia, a global leader in connected car services and mobility data aggregation. “With the addition of Parkopedia, we are making the driver journey more seamless,” said Cameron Clayton, CEO of EasyPark Group. “Parkopedia’s in-car data integration and payment technology, coupled with our digital parking solutions and on-street parking equipment, allows us to address the entire driver experience, and we are excited to share this platform with our current and future partners. Together, we will continue making driver journeys smoother and making an open platform for the whole of the global mobility industry.” The acquisition of Parkopedia builds on a decade-long collaboration with EasyPark Group to deliver a fully integrated driver experience. Parkopedia’s advanced in-car data and payment technology for parking, EV charging, fueling and tolling complements EasyPark Group’s expertise in digital payments, enabling seamless integration across parking systems, digital platforms, and in-car solutions. For drivers, automakers and partners, the integration will enable the group to serve a wider range of vehicles and customer profiles. For cities, the acquisition provides data-driven insights to shape mobility and transportation policies and improve the efficient use of urban spaces. “This is a transformative moment for data-driven mobility. Together with EasyPark Group, we are expanding upon our combined capabilities, providing new products and features, built on highly accurate data and payment expertise, that enhance connected car services and data monetization opportunities across municipalities and the automotive industry. Our combined resources will help accelerate innovation and service delivery, continuing to delight users and enable frictionless global mobility,” said Eugene Tsyrklevich, Founder & CEO of Parkopedia.
road-bridge
Feb 14, 2025